What should be fed to a spiny mouse? - briefly
A balanced diet for a spiny mouse consists of high‑quality rodent pellets complemented by fresh vegetables, limited fruit, and occasional protein sources such as insects or boiled egg. Provide clean water at all times and exclude sugary or highly processed foods.
What should be fed to a spiny mouse? - in detail
Spiny mice require a diet that mimics their natural foraging habits while meeting laboratory nutritional standards. A balanced regimen includes the following components:
- Base pellets: Commercial rodent chow formulated for small omnivores, containing 18‑20 % protein, 4‑5 % fat, and adequate fiber. Ensure the product is free of added sweeteners or artificial colors.
- Fresh vegetables: Small portions of leafy greens (e.g., romaine lettuce, kale) and low‑oxalate vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini). Offer 1‑2 g per 10 g body weight daily, removing uneaten material after 30 minutes.
- Fruit treats: Limited quantities of low‑sugar fruits such as apple slices (seedless) or berries. Provide no more than 5 % of total caloric intake to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
- Protein supplements: Insects (crickets, mealworms) or boiled egg white can be added weekly to increase protein diversity, especially for breeding or growth phases.
- Hydration: Fresh water must be available at all times, preferably via a sipper bottle to maintain cleanliness. Avoid standing water sources.
Foods to exclude because they cause toxicity or digestive disturbances include citrus fruits, onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeine, and any processed human foods containing salt or spices. Grain‑based treats with high sugar content should be omitted to prevent obesity.
Feeding schedule should consist of daily provision of pellets and fresh produce, with removal of leftovers to preserve hygiene. Monitor body condition regularly; adjust portion sizes if weight deviates by more than 10 % of the target range. Supplements such as calcium carbonate may be required for breeding colonies, administered according to veterinary recommendation.